New Delhi: Former Sri Lankan pace bowling great Chaminda Vaas has joined Delhi Capitals as their fast bowling coach ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 season. The franchise confirmed his appointment through a social media video, bringing an end to speculation about his inclusion in the coaching staff.
Vaas, widely regarded as one of Sri Lanka’s most accomplished fast bowlers, will work with the team’s pace attack, which includes Indian bowlers Mukesh Kumar and Aquib Nabi. His appointment adds considerable international experience to Delhi Capitals’ coaching set-up as the franchise prepares for the upcoming season.
The former left-arm pacer was renowned for his ability to swing the ball and trouble batters with accuracy and variations. His experience across international cricket and the IPL is expected to be valuable as he takes on the task of guiding the franchise’s fast bowlers.
Vaas brings an outstanding international record
Vaas enjoyed a distinguished international career, representing Sri Lanka in 111 Test matches and 322 One-Day Internationals (ODIs). He claimed 355 wickets in Tests and 400 wickets in ODIs, establishing himself as one of the leading fast bowlers of his generation.
He was also part of Sri Lanka’s successful campaign at the 1996 ODI World Cup, when the team won its first global title. His contributions with the ball played an important role in Sri Lanka’s rise as a major force in international cricket during the 1990s and early 2000s.
One of the most remarkable performances of Vaas’ career came against Zimbabwe in 2001. He took eight wickets for just 19 runs in an ODI, recording figures that remain the best individual bowling performance by wickets and runs conceded in the format.
Another milestone came during the 2003 World Cup match against Bangladesh. Vaas took a hat-trick with the first three deliveries of the match, becoming the first bowler to achieve the feat in ODI cricket. The extraordinary spell underlined his ability to make an immediate impact and remains one of the most memorable achievements in the tournament’s history.
Experience as an international bowling coach
Vaas has substantial coaching experience following his playing career. He served as Sri Lanka’s bowling coach from 2013 to 2015 and subsequently returned to coaching and consultancy roles with the national team.
His work has also extended beyond Sri Lanka. He assisted New Zealand’s fast bowlers during their 2012 tour of Sri Lanka and worked with Ireland’s squad ahead of the 2016 ICC World Twenty20.
More recently, Vaas was appointed head coach of Kandy Royals for the 2026 Lanka Premier League (LPL), adding to his experience in leadership roles within professional cricket.
His appointment at Delhi Capitals will give the franchise access to a coach who has experienced fast bowling at the highest level and worked with players from different international teams.
Return to the IPL after more than a decade
Vaas is no stranger to the IPL, having played for the Deccan Chargers between 2008 and 2010. The franchise, which is no longer part of the tournament, gave him his previous opportunity to compete in the league.
During his IPL playing career, Vaas claimed 18 wickets in 13 matches at an economy rate of 7.55. His appointment as Delhi Capitals’ fast bowling coach marks his return to the competition for the first time since 2010, this time in a coaching capacity.
His familiarity with the demands of the IPL could help him guide bowlers through the challenges of the tournament, where conditions, opposition strategies and match situations often require quick adjustments.
For Delhi Capitals, his role will involve helping the pace unit refine its skills, develop consistency and adapt to the demands of the competition. His background in swing bowling could be particularly useful in helping young Indian fast bowlers improve their control and ability to exploit different conditions.
Delhi Capitals reshape coaching staff
Vaas joins a revamped Delhi Capitals coaching set-up as the franchise prepares for IPL 2027. The team is looking to strengthen its support staff following two disappointing seasons under head coach Hemang Badani.
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly is set to take charge as head coach for the next season, while former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has joined the set-up as assistant and batting coach.
There have also been reports linking former India leg-spinner Amit Mishra with the role of spin bowling coach. However, his appointment has not been confirmed.
The addition of Vaas brings specialist fast bowling expertise to the coaching group. With Ganguly expected to lead the team and Yuvraj involved in the batting department, the franchise is assembling a coaching unit with experience across different aspects of the game.
Focus shifts to IPL 2027 preparations
Vaas’ appointment signals Delhi Capitals’ focus on strengthening their coaching resources ahead of the next IPL season. His international record, knowledge of fast bowling and previous experience in the league give him a combination of skills suited to the role.
The immediate challenge will be to work with the existing bowling group and help the team prepare for the demands of the tournament. For bowlers such as Mukesh Kumar and Aquib Nabi, access to guidance from a former international fast bowler could provide opportunities to develop their skills and tactical understanding.
Delhi Capitals will hope the revamped coaching structure helps the team produce more consistent performances in IPL 2027. Vaas’ arrival is another step in that process, bringing one of Sri Lanka’s most successful fast bowlers back into the IPL environment in a new role.